“Depression” used to be a bad word, whether it referred to the economy or to the emotional lows that so often make people doubt that life is worth living.

Modern medical science now knows that depression and many related emotional conditions are not bad words at all. Nor are they symptoms of weakness. Not only is it not helpful to say, “snap out of it,” or “don’t be so moody,” or “why don’t you cheer up?” -- such judgments betray an abysmal lack of understanding that most such moods are physical problems that can be remedied with the proper understanding and treatment. No one would dream of denying antibiotics to someone with pneumonia, or telling a cancer victim that the pain is only imaginary. Why should ignorance prevent people from getting relief from the adult maladies that banish joy from life and often make it impossible to function normally?

Rabbi Abraham J. Twerski M.D. has helped countless people in his distinguished rabbinic and psychiatric careers. In this exceptional new book, he tackles a problem that needlessly fells all too many people who deserve better. Firm in the principle that knowledge of the problem is the surest starting point to its solution, Rabbi Twerski explains the symptoms and what they mean. Then he suggests the proper courses of action.

If such conditions as post-partum depression are not only common and normal -- then they are not a cause for embarrassment. And if they can be treated, then it is worse than foolish to ignore or belittle them -- it is nothing less than cruel.

With wisdom, compassion, and expertise, Dr. Twerski addresses problems that are too often discussed -- and misunderstood -- in whispers. This book will be a lifesaver for many, many individuals and families. It is more than recommended reading. It is urgent reading!